St. Barthélemy
France (Collectivity)
The glamorous yachting hotspot with designer boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and beautiful harbors. A must-visit for superyacht charters.
About St. Barthélemy
St. Barthélemy — universally known as St. Barts — is the Caribbean's most glamorous destination, and it earns the title effortlessly. This small French collectivity has somehow managed to combine breathtaking natural beauty with world-class cuisine, luxury shopping, and an atmosphere of effortless chic.
The approach to Gustavia Harbour, with its red-roofed Swedish colonial buildings reflecting in the clear water and superyachts lined up along the quay, is one of the most striking sights in Caribbean sailing. The harbour is almost always crowded — especially during New Year's, when some of the world's most spectacular yachts congregate.
Despite its celebrity reputation, St. Barts has excellent beaches for the everyday sailor — Shell Beach just steps from Gustavia, beautiful Saline Beach on the south coast, and the wild, wave-swept Anse de Grande Saline. The food is extraordinary for a 25km² island — dozens of excellent restaurants from casual beach BBQ to Michelin-worthy fine dining.
Must-See Attractions
Gustavia Town
Stroll the quay, browse luxury boutiques, and enjoy a long French lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Saline Beach
Arguably the finest beach in St. Barts — secluded, naturist-friendly, with crystal clear water.
Le Select Bar
The legendary beach bar that inspired Jimmy Buffett's "Cheeseburger in Paradise." A St. Barts institution.
Sailing Route from Antigua
Course
295° magnetic from St. John's Harbour (via St. Kitts)
Waypoints
- 1Depart Antigua
- 2Overnight passage — 14-18h total
- 3Approach Gustavia from the SE, stay clear of Pain de Sucre rock
Hazards & Notes
- • Pain de Sucre rock at harbour entrance (marked)
- • Strong gusts funnelling off the hills around Gustavia
- • Heavy boat traffic during peak season
Timing Tip
Overnight departure from Antigua to arrive in Gustavia in morning daylight. Check weather for overnight passage.
Anchorages & Marinas
Gustavia Harbour
15–40 ftGood in all but N winds
Very tight in high season — buoys and Med-moor. Reserve in advance for larger vessels. Customs office on the quay.
Anse de Colombier
20–35 ftGood in NE-SE winds
Remote bay accessible only by sea or hiking. No facilities. Stunning snorkelling. Worth the anchor trip for a swim stop.
Marinas
- Gustavia Harbour (Med-moor or buoy)
- Public Dock (day use only)
Insider Tips
Budget generously — St. Barts is significantly more expensive than other Eastern Caribbean islands
Reserve Gustavia buoys in advance during New Year's and Bucket Regatta season
Hire a scooter or Mini Moke for the day to explore the island's beaches efficiently
The duty-free shopping is genuinely excellent — spirits and fragrances in particular